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DR.C FAMILY DENTISTRY BLOG

Anxiety Free Dentistry

Do you cringe at the thought of having your teeth examined? Perhaps you’ve had a terrifying experience at the dentist, and you cannot imagine ever receiving treatment again. In either case, it is possible to experience anxiety-free dentistry with the right level of sedation.

Sometimes called “sleep dentistry,” sedation dentistry uses varying levels of medication to relax patients, whether they are receiving a regular tooth cleaning or a more invasive procedure. Without question, sedation dentistry has helped countless patients advance their oral health through regular dental treatments and attention to oral health. The different levels of sedation dentistry are explained below:

Minimal Sedation: as a form of inhaled sedation, patients breathe in nitrous oxide from a mask that is gently placed over the nose. Often called “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide does not put patients to sleep. Rather, it takes the edge off, helping patients relax enough to receive treatment.

Oral Sedation: Ranging from minimal to moderate sedation, oral sedation is given to patients in pill form, and is taken approximately one hour prior to treatment. An example of oral sedation is Halcion (with similar effects as Valium). For patients that need a larger dose, more of the medication is prescribed. It’s common for some patients to become relaxed enough to drift off to sleep during treatment.

IV Moderate Sedation: For longer dental treatments or those that are more invasive, dentists may suggest an IV form of sedation, which is administered through a vein. This form of sedation works quickly, and the dentist can adjust the levels of sedation throughout the procedure.

General Anesthesia: Depending on the extent of a patient’s anxiety and the complexity of treatment, general anesthesia may be given. Patients are asleep throughout treatment, and the effects of anesthesia must be reversed with another medication at the conclusion of treatment.

Comfort and Convenience Are Top Priorities

At Dr. C Family Dentistry, comfort and convenience are top priorities. With a unique brand of care, Dr. Cochran and the team provide anxiety-free dentistry with several options for sedation dentistry. Without a doubt—our team goes above and beyond to help your family receive the dental care that you deserve. To schedule your appointment, call Dr. C Family Dentistry in Spokane today.

WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT

Your comfort and convenience are our top priorities. From the time you arrive, you'll experience our unique brand of care. With on-time scheduling, easy check in and check out, and attentive and helpful dental professionals, you'll always receive the highest standard of care.